January 2025 Round-Up

As we begin 2025, I want to take a moment to recognize the resilience and spirit that define our great state. California has always been a beacon of progress, innovation, and opportunity, and as we navigate the challenges ahead, we must remain steadfast in our values of inclusivity, democracy, and hope.  

Already this year, devastating wildfires have swept through Los Angeles, destroying homes and businesses, displacing families, and testing the strength of our communities. My heart is with everyone affected, and I want to recognize the bravery of our firefighters, first responders, and neighbors who have come together in this time of crisis. As we begin the difficult work of rebuilding, I am committed to ensuring our state provides the resources and support needed to help communities recover and emerge stronger. These fires are yet another urgent reminder that we must double down on our efforts to combat climate change, invest in wildfire prevention, and strengthen disaster preparedness to protect Californians now and in the future. 

As our legislature reconvenes for a new year, we remain focused on the issues that matter most to Californians—expanding access to affordable education, ensuring economic prosperity, and building a future where all communities can thrive. January also marks International Holocaust Remembrance Day—a solemn reminder of the responsibility we all share to stand against hatred and protect the freedoms that define us. Let us honor the lessons of history by fostering a society built on justice, tolerance, and mutual respect. 

In the year ahead, I remain committed to leading with compassion, innovation, and determination. California’s strength has always been its people, and by working together, I know we will overcome challenges and build a stronger, brighter, and safer future for all. 

Thank you for being part of this journey. 

Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California

Standing with Southern California: Wildfire Recovery and Resilience 

The recent wildfires in Southern California have been devastating, with thousands of homes and businesses lost and entire communities forever changed. Yet, in the face of destruction, we have also seen the best of California—the bravery of our first responders, the resilience of our neighbors, and the unwavering spirit of communities coming together to help one another. Firefighters, law enforcement, and emergency personnel work around the clock to contain the fires and protect lives, while everyday Californians step up to support those in need. 

This month, I traveled to Los Angeles County to see the damage firsthand, meeting with first responders, local officials, and impacted families. My first stop was the Pacific Palisades, where I surveyed damages and received a briefing on containment efforts from representatives of CalFire. Afterward, I traveled to Pasadena and Altadena to assess the damage from the Eaton Fire. At the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center, I spoke with survivors and representatives providing critical housing support and small business aid. These centers serve as vital lifelines for those navigating the road to recovery, offering resources to rebuild and move forward. 

I also joined Good Morning America to share what I saw on the ground and discuss how Californians are coming together during this difficult time.  As we continue to recover and rebuild, I remain committed to ensuring that every impacted community receives the support they need. 

Honoring International Holocaust Remembrance Day 

Each year, the world recognizes January 27th as International Holocaust Memorial Day, honoring the memory of the more than six million Jews and millions of other people who perished during the Holocaust.  This year also marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, the largest and most notorious Nazi death camp. 

In honor of International Holocaust Memorial Day, I began the day with consuls general and other dignitaries for a solemn ceremony at San Francisco’s Legion of Honor and ended the day with Rabbi Shimon Margolin and over ten Jewish organizations to remember the lives lost and the enduring spirit of those who survived. I also joined Rabbi Meyer H. May and toured Simon Wiesenthal Center’s new Mobile Museum of Tolerance in Sacramento. Their mobile museum brings a powerful exhibit and lessons to schools and communities across the state, inspiring people to speak out against antisemitism, bigotry, and hate.  As we face modern challenges, we must continue to uphold the lessons from history and fight for a future built on justice and human dignity. 

Combating Human Trafficking in California 

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and on January 21, I had the opportunity to join survivors, community advocates, and other elected officials in Sacramento for a roundtable discussion on policy solutions to strengthen protections and support for survivors. This roundtable focused on uplifting the voices of those directly affected, ensuring their experiences shape our legislative and policy responses. Protecting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable is a top priority, and I will continue working with survivors and advocates to stop trafficking and keep victims safe.  

Transgender Advisory Council Statement  

In response to President Trump’s recent executive orders targeting transgender, gender-nonconforming, and intersex (TGI) community members, our Transgender Advisory Council released a statement. 

Read the Full Press Release.